Infant of diabetic mother

Alternative Names

Treatment

All infants born to mothers with diabetes should be tested for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), even if they have no symptoms.

If an infant had one episode of low blood sugar, tests to check blood sugars will be done over several days. This will continue until the infant's blood sugar remains stable with normal feedings.

Early feeding may prevent low blood sugar in mild cases. Persistent low blood sugar is treated with glucose given through a vein. Rarely, medications to treat other effects of diabetes on the infant are needed.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Better control of diabetes and early recognition of gestational diabetes has decreased the number and severity of problems in infants born to mothers with diabetes. Usually, an infant's symptoms go away within a few weeks. However, an enlarged heart may take several months to get better.

Possible Complications

• Congenital heart defects
• Heart failure
• Neonatal polycythemia
• Severe low blood sugar - may cause permanent brain damage
• Small left colon syndrome - causes symptoms of intestinal blockage
• Stillbirth

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If you are pregnant and receiving routine prenatal care, routine testing will show if you develop gestational diabetes.

If you are pregnant and have diabetes that is difficult to controll, call your doctor immediately.

If you are pregnant and not receiving prenatal care, make an appointment with your heatlh care provider or call the State Board of Health for instructions on how to obtain state-assisted prenatal care.